ละครดึกดำบรรพ์เรื่องรามเกียรติ์ ตอนศูรปนขาตีสีดา

Abstract

The purposes of this research were to study: 1) This research finds that the episode of Surpanaka in the Ramakien Lakhon Deuk Dum Ban (opera oriented dance drama) was composed by His Royal Highness Prince Narissaranuwattivongse according to the English version of the Indian Ramayana (Adhyatma Ramayana). Surpanaka is one of the most significant characters in both the Ramayana (Indian version) and the Ramakien (Thai version). The Indian Ramayana was aimed for praying and worshipping, whereas the Thai Ramakien was composed for performing. 2) Lakhon Deuk Dum Ban was originated in the reign of King Rama V who performed, danced, sang, and dressed up in khon costumes. It evolved from a concert performance, a story concert, and a tableau vivant.  3) The dramatic element of Surpanaka consists of Thai classical dance movements. This role has two characters, an ogress and a disguised ogress. The dance movements are quite strong and are presented in an unladylike manner.